Skip to content
  1. Home
  2. Poses
  3. Backbend
Beginner Backbend Kneeling Hatha

Supported Camel Variation

Also called Camel with Hands on Back

This variation gives the chest opening of Camel while the hands support the lower back.

Level
Beginner
Hold
3–5 breaths
Focus
Gentle backbend
Steps
5 cues · ~1 min
Supported Camel Variation demonstrated on a mat
  • Lift the heart
WorksChest · hip flexors

Step by step

How to do Supported Camel Variation

StartKneel upright.

  1. 1

    Kneel with knees hip-width.

  2. 2

    Place palms on the lower back.

  3. 3

    Inhale and lift the chest.

  4. 4

    Gently draw the elbows together.

  5. 5

    Keep the chin slightly tucked.

  6. ↩

    Coming out. Rise slowly and rest in Child's Pose.

Breath

Steady breathing.

Focus

Gentle backbend

Why practise it

Opens the chest gently.

Alignment

Cues & common mistakes

Aim for Hips stay over knees.

Teacher’s cues

  • “Lift the heart”

Watch out for

Dropping the head back.

Make it yours

Easier, harder, supported

Easier

Smaller backbend.

Variations
  • Camel Pose
Props
  • Blanket under knees

In a sequence

Where it fits in a flow

  1. BeforeLow Lunge
  2. This poseSupported Camel Variation
  3. AfterCamel Pose
  4. AfterChild’s Pose

Good to know

Questions

Is this a complete pose?

Yes — a supported variation is a complete practice.

In the tradition

A modern teaching variation of Ustrasana.

What helps

Props that make this easier

  • Non-slip yoga mat A 4–6 mm mat with good grip makes standing poses steadier. View on Amazon
  • Cork yoga block Brings the floor closer in forward folds and supported poses. View on Amazon
  • Cotton yoga strap Extends your reach in hamstring and shoulder stretches. View on Amazon
Setting up a home practice space?Our short list of props worth having, from mat to meditation cushion. See YogiSoul picks

As an Amazon Associate, YogiSoul earns from qualifying purchases. Links open Amazon in your country’s store.

Hold Supported Camel Variation

Ready

0 / 3 breaths

Lift the heart

esc